The Property
Zorro Ranch was located near Stanley, New Mexico, approximately 26 miles southeast of Santa Fe. Epstein purchased the property and expanded it over years:
- Size: Approximately 10,000 acres (some reports say 7,500 acres)
- Main residence: A large main compound with guest accommodations
- Airstrip: Private landing strip capable of handling small jets
- Additional structures: Guesthouses, utility buildings, outbuildings
- Helipad: Helicopter facilities in addition to the airstrip
The property gave Epstein the ability to bring guests — and victims — to a remote private location with no public oversight.
The Scientific Gatherings
Zorro Ranch hosted multiple gatherings of scientists and intellectuals, with Epstein positioning the remote New Mexico setting as an intellectually stimulating retreat. Attendees included researchers from:
- Santa Fe Institute (nearby in Santa Fe)
- Various elite universities
- Independent researchers invited by Epstein
These gatherings were part of Epstein’s broader strategy of associating himself with legitimate intellectual life.
Victim Accounts
Multiple Epstein victims described being brought to Zorro Ranch:
- Virginia Roberts Giuffre described being taken to the ranch
- Annie Farmer testified at the Maxwell trial that she was brought to the ranch at age 16 under the guise of a work opportunity
- Other victims described similar experiences
At the ranch, victims described:
- Isolated location made escape difficult
- Staff bound by NDAs
- Young women present in unclear capacities
New Mexico State Investigation
After Epstein’s 2019 arrest, the New Mexico Attorney General’s Office investigated:
- Whether sex trafficking had occurred on the property
- Whether state laws had been violated
- Whether local officials had any knowledge of activities
The investigation resulted in a settlement with Epstein’s estate.
The Ranch After Epstein’s Death
Zorro Ranch was an asset of Epstein’s estate and was eventually liquidated as part of estate administration. The property sold for approximately $15–20 million, considerably below what Epstein had invested in developing it.